Viral fever is more common in monsoons. It is caused by viral infections. Viruses, microscopic germs, can rapidly transmit from one person or another. Sometimes it is misdiagnosed and then spreads to later stages because of a lack of awareness. Self-medicating with antibiotics in order to lower high body temperatures can also increase the risk of complications. It is important to detect viral fever early.
What Is Viral Fever?
Virus fever is a term that refers to acute viral infections. The most common symptom is a rise in body temperature. This can happen during monsoon. This virus can cause a higher than normal body temperature. A person might experience symptoms such as a runny nose, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and exhaustion. Most viral diseases can be treated with patience and support therapies such as cold compresses or over-the-counter drugs. High body temperatures may require medical intervention.
Symptoms
People may experience:
- Muscle and joint pains
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Running nose
- Temperatures up to 104°F are considered high.
- Face swelling
- Dehydration
- There are occasional chills
- Eye redness
- Skin rash
Causes
- Viruses are an extremely small type of infectious agent. They can invade your cells and multiply.
- Viral sickness can be caused by various viruses, such as the flu and cold viruses.
- There are many deadly viruses that can be found in food and beverages. Consuming contaminated food and drink can cause viral infections such as enteroviruses or noroviruses.
- Viral infections can be caused by viruses transmitted from insects to animals, such as rabies and fever.
- Hepatitis B or HIV can be spread by sharing bodily fluids.
- Children and babies are at high risk for getting infected by viral infections due to their low immunity.
- Because of their weak immune systems, older people are more susceptible to viral infections.
- Viral infections can be contracted by coming in contact with contaminated areas.
How To Diagnose?
It is difficult to identify viral fever from the symptoms alone. To rule out other issues, the doctor may order blood tests. These tests can detect any bacterial infection which could be causing the symptoms.
If you have a sore throat, they may try to swab it. This is to make sure there are no bacteria causing strep throat. If your test results come back negative, it is most likely that you have a virus infection. To determine if you have a virus infection, they may also take a sample from your blood or any bodily fluid. A doctor might ask for blood, urine, and sputum samples to identify the virus. Doctors can use the sample to diagnose various diseases, such as dengue fever, malaria, chikungunya, and typhoid.
Treatment
The severity of the disease determines the treatment for viral fever. Doctors will usually prescribe drugs to reduce symptoms and lower the fever. Self-medication may exacerbate an already existing problem. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment from a physician.
Treatment For Mild Infections
For viral infections, there are less antibiotics available. Examples include Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen, as well as Naproxen and other NSAIDs. Based on your medical history, current condition, and other factors, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent further infection.
Treatment For Severe Infections
Serious infections can lead to delirium, seizures, and respiratory problems. Complex viral diseases can cause persistent temperatures exceeding 103 degrees F. This is a medical emergency and requires admission to an Intensive Care Unit.
The common myth that fever can be treated with freezing water or by applying it to the skin is a popular one. However, prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures can cause severe damage to the body. Instead, take a warm bath in lukewarm waters. A body temperature that is higher than the normal can cause seizures and hallucinations.
Do’s & Don’ts During Viral Fever
Do’s:
Relax and take some time to rest so the medicines can do their job. Your immunity will be restored. The course of treatment must be completed to heal the root infection. Increase your fluid intake to avoid dehydration. It is recommended to eat lighter meals that are easy for your body to digest.
Don’ts:
Self-medicating should be avoided at any cost. The problem is made worse by taking the medication without a proper diagnosis and understanding. Avoid sharing personal items, such as handkerchiefs and meals, with others to reduce the chance of infection. Only a doctor should recommend that antibiotics be taken. Normal temperature and surroundings should be maintained by the patient. Even if patients get colds, they shouldn’t be wrapped up in blankets or heavy clothing.
Prevention Of Viral Fever
Infected people can spread viral infections through touching, breathing, and sneezing. You can avoid getting a fever by limiting your exposure. These are some tips that might be helpful:
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Teach your children how you wash their hands.
- Sanitize your hand
- Avoid touching your mouth and nose.
- Don’t share your cups and utensils.
Higher temperatures are more conducive to viral development than normal or mild temperatures. Therefore, it is best to eat warm food. You can avoid infection by changing your clothes quickly after visiting the hospital for a checkup or meeting a patient.
